Aizawl FC happy to be underdogs: Coach Fraile

Manuel Retamero Fraile who is in charge of Aizawl FC, the new entrants in this year's I-League, says they are happy to be the underdogs.

The outfit lost their opening game against defending champions Mohun Bagan and have to face formidable Bengaluru FC this weekend.

"Definitely it's going to be an acid test but not a 'make or break' situation at all. It's just one week. Even if we can't garner one point from the next outing against Bengaluru FC, we'll have 16 matches left in the league," Fraile, who hails from Spain, was quoted as saying by the I-League website.

"First and foremost the team needs to regroup and play out of their skins. None is going to bet on us to win against them and we're happy to be the underdogs."

Fraile stated there is immense pressure on them to perform and that they would accept any outcome with a big heart.

"Definitely there is immense pressure. But we have to face it. We're here to carry out our duty and no matter what will be the outcome we'll accept it with a big heart," he said.

Asked if playing the heavyweights in the league upfront is a bit of a problem, Fraile said: "Not really. This week or the next one, you've to face all of them. In a league, you can't really look for a hideout."

"The teams don't have a say in the scheduling and it's not at all detrimental to face the super powers during the build up. We could not earn a point in Kolkata, nevertheless it was a good show against the giants Mohun Bagan."

The coach added that he is still getting to know about the players and will soon adopt a strategy that will suit them best.

"My first duty was to get to the roots and still we're digging deep to get to know each other more. We'll adopt the best strategy, whichever be it, to churn out the desired result on a match day," he said.

David Lalrinmuana, a 23-year-old forward, is the skipper of the side and Fraile believes he is going to leave a mark on the tournament this year.

"He might be a 23 years old chap, but believe me, he is outstanding when it comes to reading the game. Keep an eye on him, the little fella is going to toy with the opponent's defence in the league. We're sure that he's going to prove his worth and won't shy away from his duties. I just want the boys to enjoy every moment and leave the ground holding their heads high," he said.